Asquith Old Boys Club NewsletterAsquith Old Boys Club NewsletterAsquith Old Boys Club NewsletterAsquith Old Boys Club Newsletter

Vol. 2 2007

Captain’s CommentCaptain’s CommentCaptain’s CommentCaptain’s Comment It is an honour to welcome you to the 2

nd Annual Old

Boys Magazine. Being elected School Captain of Asquith Boys High School for 2007 is a great privilege and is a position that I relish. Being involved in a club such as this makes me proud to lead a school that has been providing for the needs of young males in the community for some 47 years. Coming to ABHS since 2002 I have found personally, that Asquith Boys has a great culture and the traditions of the school carry over many years.

In weighing up the year ahead, and looking at the Old Boys Club’s future, it is apparent that the club has already provided a great link between past and present students at this school and we look forward to strengthening this link in the future. Through various initiatives such as fundraisers providing new facilities and school ground improvements, greater opportunities for current and future students will present themselves with the core objective of raising the profile of the school in the local community, and promoting boys’ education.

As we embark on another year at Asquith Boys, getting the most out of the school is an objective which we strive for. At a school which has already given us so much, we wish to give a little back, and the Old Boys Club is a perfect avenue for this initiative.

2007 looks to be another great year at Asquith on the sports-front, as the Soccer Squad sets to launch into the 5

th international tour to Thailand in April, the

Rugby team sets themselves for Queensland, and the house point competition heats up as Cooba, Kurrajong, Myall and Wandoo wrestle for the championship. On the academic-front many opportunities are being presented to Asquith boys in all areas of study as well as in the area of school leadership, through programs such as peer tutoring, peer mediation, peer support, the Student Representative Council (SRC), and senior prefect positions. Through developing and constantly improving the opportunities we provide to students of Asquith Boys the great traditions of camaraderie and mateship evolve which are still evident in today’s students as it was decades ago.

As the Asquith Boys High School Old Boys Club is in its early development, I urge you to become involved as it promises to be an exciting, effective, and direct link to the school and its local community. We look forward to yet again turning over another page in the vast, proud history of the school. Barton Johnston School Captain 2007

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT

Peter Boyle Craig Cosier Wayne Evans

David Green Jia Yuan (David) Huang

Jamie Khalighi Michael Kleinman David Lam

Yinyi (Richard) Liu Benjamin McClure James McLaughlin

Owen McMahon Dong (Tony) Pan Ryan Sinclair

EXEMPLARY ACHIEVEMENT

Steven Anicic

Nathaniel Bowden

Fang (Andy) Cheng

Simon Fisher

Jason Lee

Pavan Prabhala

Rohanraj Sivaraj

EXCELLENT ACHIEVEMENT

Daniel Churchill Tristan Collins Wilson Duong

Robert Gilmour Daniel Kolarik Man Hin (Herman) Lok

Cameron McElroy Angus McVey Lewis Marr

Michael Mylius Karl Penny Ian Stubbings

Chinyama Zuze

David Lam, Owen McMahon, James McLaughlin Craig Cosier, Benjamin McClure, Wayne Evans,

Jamie Khalighi

2006 HSC High Achievers2006 HSC High Achievers2006 HSC High Achievers2006 HSC High Achievers

Karl Penny, Ian Stubbings, Angus McVey, Robert Gilmour, Daniel

Kolarik, Lewis Marr

Rohanraj Sivaraj and Jason Lee Nathaniel Bowden and Pavan Prabhala

Tristan Collins and Ian Stubbings enjoyed the glory of seeing their works exhibited in the windows of David Jones, Market Street store in the last week of January and the first week of February. They were able to take their parents to the breakfast opening.

The David Jones exhibition is the first in several exhibitions that highlight the top performances in the 2006 HSC Body of Work component of the examination.

Ms Cooke and Mrs Ainge had a lovely evening at the AGNSW opening of ArtExpress on the 13 February.

This exhibition is highly recommended for all senior Visual Arts students and it is suggested that they make their way there independently before the end of March.

Exhibited in ArtExpressExhibited in ArtExpressExhibited in ArtExpressExhibited in ArtExpress

Christopher Imrie (Vice Captain) and Barton Johnston (Captain)

continued page 2

RRRReport on Careers Seminar Dayeport on Careers Seminar Dayeport on Careers Seminar Dayeport on Careers Seminar Day

This year, as in previous years the program included presentations from University and TAFE representatives. Students attended workshops on “Finding a Job”, “Accessing Apprenticeships” and “Managing Money”.

Unlike recent years, the program this year included a segment presented by former student, Mr Stig Falster. Stig is an original student of Asquith Boys enrolling in 1960, just as the school opened. Stig pointed out that he was one of a few students at Asquith Boys who held a Prefect role for three years, as each year in a growing school he was among the senior group.

At Careers Seminar Day, Stig represented the Resources and Infrastructure Industry Skills Council, speaking of opportunities in Australia’s bourgeoning coal and metal mining industries and civil engineering. Stig explained that extensive opportunities exist in these industries, due partly to the boom in mining and the need for supporting infrastructure, but also due to an ageing workforce with many staff in leadership roles due to retire in a few years.

One pathway for a school leaver to gain employment in one of these industries is to apply for some of the traineeships offered annually. Traineeships provide employment and on the job training. Participants work in a team whilst gaining industry skills and undertake training relevant to their role. Competency based training commences with mandatory units and elective units leading to Certificate 1 qualification. As employees progress in these industries Certificate II and III Training Packages are accessed.

A video featuring some of the ore blasting techniques used in Australian open cut mining, as well as still images of miners in action using jumbo drillers, bucket excavators, long haul miners and drilling rigs used in exploration focussed the attention of Stig's audience.

To supplement his presentation, Stig issued a flyer with details of the training program and a functional souvenir. Students applauded enthusiastically at the conclusion of this presentation.

Perhaps former students or others reading this report would like to contribute to Career Seminar Days, or other Career programs at Asquith Boys. Jan Fry in the Careers Department will be happy to provide further details.

Report by Mr Chris Kent, former student and Head Teacher

Artwork by Tristan Collins

Artwork by Ian Stubbings

ArtExpressArtExpressArtExpressArtExpress

Tristan Collins with mother and grandmother

Ian Stubbings (R) with parents and grandmother

Christopher Imrie (Vice Captain), Mr Stig Falster, Barton Johnston (Captain) and Lewis Peters (Year 12 Prefect)

Colin Scully Group Executive

Operations Australian Stock Exchange

of keeping the school maintained with limited funds, I am reminded that while many things have changed since my time at Asquith (1966-1971), some things remain the same: the challenge and dedication of the faculty, staff and volunteers.

I spoke to the boys about opportunity, challenge, leadership and teamwork. The school and family provide the framework for learning. Asquith provided a solid platform of values and helped shape my early thinking. I have many fond memories of my time at Asquith, the teachers (Mr Twible, Mr Kench, Ms Babidge, and Mr Wilson, to name a few), fellow students, and the experiences which remain with you a lifetime.

For me, the past 36 years was built on three key pillars:

Sport, particularly through my 20’s and 30’s: This included rugby at Gordon, surfboat rowing at Warriewood SLSC where I was fortunate to represent NSW and Australia, and a time as club trainer at Warringah Rugby Club in the late 80’s with my old rowing mate Rod MacQueen.

Family: I have a wife of 24 years and four terrific children, who ensure my feet are firmly “nailed to the floor”.

Business: After early years as an analyst programmer working for Wormald International and Wrigley’s, the chewing gum manufacturer (at Michigan Avenue, Asquith), I joined the Sydney Stock Exchange. It’s somewhat unfashionable these days to remain at an organisation for any length of time. Next year I complete 25 years at ASX in two separate terms at the exchange.

I am currently Group Executive, Operations of the recently merged ASX and SFE organisations. Pre-merger at ASX, I held many positions across the organisation including Director of Derivatives, Chief Operating Officer, Deputy CEO.

I am also immediate past President of the International Options Market Association (IOMA) and currently Vice-Chair of CCP12, an association formed by the world’s principal clearing organisations, dedicated to improving global clearing, netting and central counterparty (CCP) services.

36 years has seemingly passed in a blink, and I owe much to many people.

Foremost amongst them are my teachers, friends and family that shaped the foundation and values I anchor to, until this day.

Well, this morning was a happy trip down memory lane for me. At the invitation from an Asquith Old Boy and long time senior teacher at the school, Mr Chris Kent, I returned to the school for the first time since 1971 to address the school assembly and present honour awards for 2006 HSC graduates.

In talking to Principal Terry Griffiths about the talent of the boys and the on-going challenge

“Former Asquith Old Boy recalls”“Former Asquith Old Boy recalls”“Former Asquith Old Boy recalls”“Former Asquith Old Boy recalls”

The address at the 2006 HSC Awards Assembly was given by former student, Colin Scully. Colin, graduating with his HSC in 1972 holds the position of Group Executive - Operations at the Australian Stock Exchange.

After thanking School Captain, Barton Johnston for his introduction, and congratulating the outstanding 2006 Year 12 achievers, Colin shared a recollection of an incident that occurred just prior to a 'School Speech Day', when he was to sing in a small vocal ensemble. When testing his gymnastic prowess on the overhead supports for the covered walkway over the steps leading to the Library, Colin leapt, lost his grip (after a foot unbalanced his graceful leap by colliding with a vertical support), and crashed onto the steps below, resulting in a badly gashed head. On that occasion Colin remembers being carried to the ambulance as the official party was making its way to the Assembly at which Colin and fellow vocalists were to perform.

Opportunities for sports participation at Asquith Boys were recalled enthusiastically. Participation in teams in the Tasman Cup (Soccer) and Waratah Shield (Rugby) assisted Colin in realising the unique differences that individuals bring to a team. These differences should be recognised and can be developed for the benefit of the team. Commitment to teamwork is important in developing a sense of purpose. Colin attributes much of the success of the Warragul surfboat team, in which he rowed for 20 years, including State and National representation, to these strategies.

The importance of family in providing a framework and in assisting in developing a sense of balance in life is as important in the life of youth as it is in adulthood. Such values are reinforced by schools that encourage students to become involved with charities and cultural pursuits.

In concluding his remarks Colin exhorted students to 'resolve to make a difference' and to 'recognise the difference between being involved and being committed’. The value of developing one’s own identity should not be underestimated, as we are all unique. Students should explore the full range of experiences available at Asquith Boys and be active in setting short term and midterm goals. Success, including financial reward will follow such a strategy. Report by Mr Chris Kent, former student and Head Teacher

Extract From HSC Extract From HSC Extract From HSC Extract From HSC

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In the Australian honours system appointments to the Order of Australia confer the highest recognition for outstanding achievement and service.

Ben McClure, a Year 12 student at Asquith Boys High School, has today Wednesday 22nd November, received an award from The Order of Australia Association NSW Branch, Certificate of Commendation for Service to the Community.

Ben was the ABHS SRC President 2006 and was a Prefect in Years 11 & 12. He participated in Peer Mediation and received the Hornsby Lions Citizenship Award. He is also currently participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.

Ben can see the benefits of involvement in the community and since 1999 has been a member of St John Ambulance First Aid Services. He currently holds the rank of Cadet Leader at the Hornsby Cadet Division. Ben is also a NSW Youth Council Events Team Member, Presenter for Youth in the Know Forum and President of the Hornsby Area Youth Organisation Council.

Order of Australia AssociationOrder of Australia AssociationOrder of Australia AssociationOrder of Australia Association Certificate of Commendation for Service to the Community

Science EXPOsed 2006 Winning TeamScience EXPOsed 2006 Winning TeamScience EXPOsed 2006 Winning TeamScience EXPOsed 2006 Winning Team A team of students from Mrs Rui’s Year 9 Science Class were the Champions of this year’s Science EXPOsed Challenge held on Friday 27th October, at Parliament House, winning a new Apple IMac for the school.

Judy Hopwood MP, joined forces with Mathew Collins, Robert Goodby, Tim Graham-Robinson, Shaun Johnston, Geoffrey Limbert, Michael Loccisano, Ryan Shields, Matthew Smith, Tom Van den Berg, and to challenge over 1750 Year 9 students from 64 High Schools across NSW and their local state member.

Each team had to solve a series of science and engineering challenges. They were given instructions and materials to simulate an electricity distribution system, construct a coded communications device and decode the messages, and develop a pipe and balloon air canon.

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As the FFA aligned politically closer to the Asian Football Confederation, we decided to develop links with our Asian neighbours also. Malaysia was to be our first port of call and what a Tour we had! 26 boys this time and with a smaller (…and injury weakened) Squad, we knew it would be tough. However, on the field, everyone played their hearts out and were a credit in their performances against very strong – albeit International opposition. Luke Doust came back from injury to score our only goal on Tour but all results were respectable on an artificial surface we had not experienced before. Highlights were Chris Oakes’ point blank saves from unbelievable angles ( I still don’t believe it!) and great efforts from the younger brigade of Matt Hogan and Tom Slade in particular. Boys who overcame injury to keep playing and not let their teammates down was another memory. Captains Sam O’Connor (Elite) and Owen McMahon (Invitational) both in their third Tour were outstanding leaders and best Players were Adam Kohlhagen and Jordan Buie. Off the field, the Sunway Lagoon Resort was opulence to the extreme, the kindness and politeness of the people we encountered and the food… and 24 hour TV Football – fantastic. Again , all boys were recognised with NSW Certificates of Representation and Mike, Corey and I were totally blown away by their excellent behaviour.

Report by Mr Geogre Moscos, Tour Manager & Head Teacher HSIE

HAVE YOU REGISTERED WITH THE ASQUITH OLD BOYS CLUB?

The Club aims to link former students of Asquith Boys High to the large Asquith Boys Community as the School approaches its 50th Birthday in a few years. News from former students and teachers, together with current School events will bring readers up to date through the publication of an Old Boys Club Newsletter. All former students who register interest will receive the first Newsletters free (thanks to a small grant from the School Budget). It is envisaged that, for the present, E-mail newsletters will be free of charge. Full colour mailed copies of the Newsletters will cost $10 annually.

ASQUITH OLD BOYS CLUB REGISTRATION

Full Name: (please print) _____________________________________________________________________________ (tick your referred contact)

� Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Post Code: _________

� E-mail: __________________________________________________________________________ Phone ( ) ________________________

Year Graduated: _____________________ Year Enrolled: ______________________

Names of teachers you can recall: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What recollections do you have of your school days? Do you have any photos? ________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What are your current passions?______________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What benefit did you derive from your time at Asquith Boys? _______________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How would you like to celebrate your years at Asquith Boys in 2010? _________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Can you advise us of mates who can be added to the mail out contact? _______________________________________________________________

Mail to: Asquith Boys High School Old Boys Club: PO Box 242 Hornsby 1630 or E-mail: Bruce Collins (Deputy Principal) & Chris Kent (former student & Head Teacher): asquithboy-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Ben McClure with Professor Marie Bashir is the Governor of NSW

Shaun Johnston with Judy Hopwood MP